SOCCER DIGEST

A round-up of today's other soccer stories in brief ....

Newcastle United put up for sale

NEWCASTLE UNITED owner Mike Ashley officially put the club up for sale at a cut-price €115 million yesterday in a small-ads style statement on the club’s website.

“The board of Newcastle United can today confirm that the club is for sale at the price of £100 million,” the club said in a statement.

“Interested parties should contact Newcastle United at admin@nufc.co.uk (or Keith Harris at (investment bankers) Seymour Pierce) for further details.”

Ashley tried to sell the club for €462 million last year but could not find a buyer.

Shelbourne look to extend run

Seven-time winners Shelbourne will look to get past round two of the Ford-sponsored FAI Cup at Tolka Park for the first time in three years this evening (7.45pm) when they take on Intermediate cup champions Crumlin United in what is technically an away tie for Dermot Keely’s men.

After a run of four straight competitive wins recently, the League of Ireland outfit start as strong favourites to progress, but they are likely to be without Mark O’Brien, Damian Brennan and Richie Baker for the game, with all three ruled out by injury.

Crumlin boss Martin Loughran will have a full squad, after injury worries, Ciarán Kenna and Derek Griffin, both came through training last night without any problems.

Wenger closing in on Ajax captain Vermaelen

ARSENE WENGER is closing in on the €12 million capture of Ajax’s Thomas Vermaelen and the Arsenal manager could yet move for a second centre half, Brede Hangeland of Fulham.

If Wenger can close the deals, it would place a question mark against the Arsenal futures of Kolo Toure and William Gallas, the first-choice central defensive pairing of this past season, who both endured difficult campaigns.

Toure is attracting interest from Manchester City and Gallas is a long-term casualty with damaged knee ligaments.

Vermaelen is a Belgium international and the captain of Ajax at 23. Despite his tender years, he has emerged as a leader and his versatility also appeals to Wenger – he can play at left back as well as in the middle of defence.

Vermaelen has received an offer from Arsenal of a four-year contractand it is believed he is keen on the switch.

Barnes replaced as Jamaica coach

JAMAICA COACH John Barnes has been replaced at the helm by Theodore Whitmore after being told his contract would not be renewed. Barnes (45) was appointed on a seven-month deal last November and led the team to five wins and four draws during his tenure.

However, former England international Barnes has been told he will not be offered a new contract by the Jamaican Football Federation at the end of June, and is now expected to take the reins at English League One side Tranmere next season.